Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King

A Bold Architectural Statement in Liverpool

Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of Christ the King, stands as a bold icon of modern architecture in the city. Completed in 1967, it was designed by Sir Frederick Gibberd after an international competition sought a design that would incorporate the existing crypt and meet new liturgical requirements. The cathedral’s circular plan, 59 meters in diameter, places the altar at its center, reflecting the Second Vatican Council’s emphasis on congregational participation. Its conical shape is supported by sixteen boomerang-shaped concrete trusses and flying buttresses, giving it a tent-like appearance that contrasts with Liverpool’s older Anglican cathedral.

The Crown of Glass Lantern and Stained Glass Masterpieces

Rising above the altar is the cathedral’s most distinctive feature: a 16-sided lantern tower known as the Crown of Glass. This lantern, about 22.5 meters tall and 21 meters wide at its base, is clad in stained glass panels designed by John Piper and Patrick Reyntiens. Using a dalle de verre technique, the glass shards in vibrant blues, reds, yellows, and greens create a kaleidoscope of light that floods the interior with color. This stained glass is the largest single commission ever undertaken by the artists and symbolizes the Holy Trinity in an abstract form inspired by Dante’s Paradiso.

Interior Design and Artistic Highlights

Inside, the cathedral’s focus is the white marble altar from Skopje, Macedonia, positioned centrally to ensure all worshippers have an unobstructed view. The floor features grey and white marble designed by David Atkins, complementing the circular layout. Surrounding the nave are thirteen chapels, each with unique designs and artworks, including sculptures by Elisabeth Frink and stained glass by Margaret Trehearne and Ceri Richards. The interior’s concentric seating arrangement fosters a communal atmosphere, enhanced by the filtered, colorful light from the lantern above.

The Historic Crypt and Its Role Today

Beneath the modern cathedral lies the crypt designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, part of an earlier, more ambitious cathedral plan halted due to cost. The crypt, constructed of brick and granite, features vaulted ceilings and is the only completed section of Lutyens’ vision. Today, it houses the cathedral treasury with sacred vessels and vestments and serves as a venue for concerts and events such as the Liverpool Beer Festival. The crypt’s serene atmosphere contrasts with the vibrant modernity above.

Community, Worship, and Visitor Experience

As Britain’s largest Catholic cathedral, Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral is a spiritual hub welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. It offers a year-round program of services, concerts, and special events. Visitors can join free guided tours or explore independently, enjoying the tranquil ambiance, awe-inspiring architecture, and rich artistic heritage. The cathedral’s elevated position provides a peaceful retreat above the city bustle, where visitors can reflect amid the interplay of light and space.

Legacy and Significance in Liverpool’s Skyline

The cathedral’s design was revolutionary for its time, reflecting liturgical reforms and modernist architectural trends. Its nickname, “Paddy’s Wigwam,” affectionately references its distinctive shape. The building’s Portland stone cladding and aluminum roof contrast with the red sandstone of the nearby Anglican cathedral, symbolizing Liverpool’s diverse religious heritage. As a Grade II* listed building, it stands as a testament to mid-20th-century innovation and the enduring faith of Liverpool’s Catholic community.